ANY reforms to legal aid must ensure the most vulnerable islanders are still protected, says the leader of the Guernsey Bar.

The Policy Council has said it was so concerned about the soaring cost of the service – which offers free legal help to those who can’t afford it – that two reviews will be carried out.

These will look at various options, including changing the income threshold at which people qualify for help to fight their legal battles.

Batonnier Advocate John Greenfield (pictured) said: ‘Although the scope of the forthcoming review is presently unknown, the Bar is especially concerned that reforms should not lose sight of the need to ensure that the most vulnerable members of society are protected Legal aid is particularly significant for users of the criminal and family courts.’

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